IT Band Tendinitis
What is IT Band Tendinitis?
The iliotibial band (ITB) is a thick, fibrous band of connective tissue that originates at the hip from the tensor fasciae latae and gluteus maximus muscles and inserts at the outer portion of the knee at a bony area called Gerdy’s Tubercle. It plays a key role in stabilizing the knee during running, walking, and other movements. There is also a tissue sac called a bursa around the IT band that reduces friction between the IT band and the bone. In some instances, this bursa can get inflamed and cause pain as well.
Iliotibial (IT) band tendinitis, also known as runner’s knee, is a common injury often seen in runners, cyclists, and other athletes. The IT band is a thick band of tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh, from the hip to just below the knee. IT band tendinitis occurs when this band becomes inflamed, leading to pain and discomfort.
As an expert knee surgeon in the Detroit area, Dr. Ben Mayo specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of IT band tendinitis. When determining the best IT band tendinitis treatment plan, Dr. Mayo considers multiple factors including your activity level, goals, and injury severity to find the best treatment for you. Contact Dr. Mayo’s team today to schedule a consultation at one of his offices in Livonia or Sterling Heights.
IT band tendinitis typically occurs as a result of overuse, often from activities that involve repetitive flexing and extending the knee, such as running or cycling. Improper training techniques, poor flexibility, muscle imbalances, and abnormal running biomechanics can all contribute to the development of IT band tendinitis.
Symptoms of IT band tendinitis typically include:
- Pain on the outside of the knee, often worsening with activity and improving with rest.
- Swelling or thickening of the tissue at the outside of the knee.
- Pain that worsens when descending stairs or running downhill.
- A snapping or popping sensation when the knee is flexed and extended.
While rest and reduced activity can help alleviate symptoms of IT band tendinitis, without addressing the underlying causes, symptoms are likely to recur.
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and review of your medical history and symptoms. While imaging tests are usually not necessary, an MRI or ultrasound might be used to rule out other conditions.
Treatment usually involves rest, ice, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy exercises can also help to stretch and strengthen the IT band and surrounding muscles. In some cases, a corticosteroid injection may be considered to relieve severe pain.
Surgery is very rarely needed for IT band tendinitis. Non-surgical treatments are usually very effective. Surgery may be considered only if the condition does not improve with conservative treatments and significantly impacts quality of life.
In rare cases when surgery is required, it usually involves releasing a small portion of the IT band or removing inflamed tissue, allowing the band to glide more smoothly over the knee.
The recovery process will depend on the severity of the condition and the individual’s personal healing capacity. Typically, rest and physical therapy for several weeks to a few months is necessary. Gradual return to activity is usually possible once pain has subsided and strength and flexibility have improved.
Schedule a knee consultation
Experience comprehensive, personalized care under the expertise of Dr. Ben Mayo, one of the best knee surgeons in the Detroit area. Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of IT band tendinitis, he utilizes the latest research and techniques to enhance your path to recovery. Dr. Mayo’s clinics, located in Livonia and Sterling Heights, serve patients across Detroit and the nearby areas such as Troy, Canton, Macomb, Farmington Hills, Novi, and Royal Oak. Arrange your consultation with Dr. Mayo today.
At a Glance
Ben Mayo, MD
- Fellowship Trained Sports Surgeon
- Specializes in Minimally Invasive Arthroscopic Shoulder, Elbow, Hip, & Knee Surgery
- Published over 50 peer-reviewed articles and 10 book chapters
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